The Haven of Love Children’s Foundation has concluded an educational programme focused on adolescent reproductive health and disease prevention.

Conducted from July 22nd to 27th, 2024, this initiative aimed to provide adolescents with essential knowledge on health, hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention across six basic schools in the Bawku West District.

It was led by CEO and Founder Samuel Nana Bekai Djirackor. Mr Djirackor is dedicated to supporting vulnerable adolescents. Under his leadership, the foundation has launched numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing adolescent health and education in Ghana's Upper East Region.

His commitment to community welfare earned him the JoyNews Impact Makers Award for Health and Social Welfare. Despite minimal resources, Djirackor has mobilized support to sustain the foundation's activities, transforming lives and empowering the youth in the Bawku West District.

Campaign Overview

The campaign, led by Mr Djirackor, reached out to children and adolescents in Kpantarigu, Boya, Gozesi, Kamega, Boya Kpalsako, and Sapeliga basic schools.

Titled “Educating Kids Club/Adolescent Groups on Adolescent Reproductive Health and Preventable Diseases,” it aimed to improve understanding of reproductive health and emphasize hygiene, nutrition, and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

During the six-day program, 185 students—100 girls and 85 boys—participated actively in the sessions.

Interactive and Engaging Sessions

Mr Djirackor’s approach emphasized interactive education. The foundation employed brainstorming, practical demonstrations, discussions, and Q&A sessions.

Topics included puberty, menstrual hygiene management, STI prevention, vaccination importance, and nutrition’s role in disease prevention. Active participants received exercise books and pens to foster engagement.

The programme promoted abstinence as the safest method to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancies, and encouraged hepatitis B testing and vaccination.

Challenges and achievements

Despite challenges such as poor road conditions and limited resources, Djirackor's leadership ensured the program’s success. Some students initially hesitated to participate due to low self-confidence.

While not all students received rewards due to limited availability, these challenges were addressed through strategic planning and support from the dedicated team. The program succeeded in positively influencing students' attitudes toward reproductive and mental health.

Vision

Mr Djirackor plans to extend the program’s reach, recommending similar educational campaigns on a quarterly or semi-annual basis. He aims to include more schools and target parents and guardians to empower families in supporting adolescents' healthy development.

Collaborative efforts

The success of the Haven of Love Children’s Foundation’s initiative also depended on the contributions of facilitators like Aduku Samuel, Dorcas Awini, and Azampaka Richmond. Their efforts ensured the effective delivery of educational content.

Conclusion

As the educational campaign concludes, Samuel Nana Bekai Djirackor and the Haven of Love Children’s Foundation remain committed to fostering a healthier, more informed generation in the Bawku West District. Through dedication and innovation, Djirackor has demonstrated that meaningful change is achievable, even with limited resources.